The Evolution of Remedy Entertainment: From Linear Adventures to Co-op Shooters
Remedy Entertainment, known for their immersive, story-driven games like Alan Wake, Control, and Max Payne, has traditionally focused on single-player, third-person, linear adventures. These games are characterized by their rich narratives, engaging cutscenes, and extensive dialogue. However, with the upcoming release of FBC: Firebreak, Remedy is breaking away from this mold. This shift is not just a departure from their usual style but a strategic move that could redefine their future in the gaming industry.
What is FBC: Firebreak?
FBC: Firebreak is a first-person co-op sci-fi horror shooter set in the same universe as Control, which is part of the larger "Remedy Connected Universe." The game takes place roughly six years after the events of Control, where the interdimensional Hiss still infest most of the Oldest House, the HQ of Control’s Federal Bureau of Control. The lockdown is still in place, and supplies are running out, leading to the creation of the Firebreak Initiative—a volunteer-based emergency response team tasked with stopping the Hiss.
Key Design Pillars
Remedy has outlined three core design pillars for FBC: Firebreak:
- Pick-up-and-play friendly: The game has no cutscenes, allowing players to jump in and out easily.
- Fun on repeat: The game is designed to be enjoyable even after multiple playthroughs.
- Unique content: The game’s content is tailored to feel like it could only be found in the wild, strange world of Control.
Gameplay and Missions
FBC: Firebreak features missions called "Jobs," which involve a single main objective spread out across multiple sections. Players can customize the difficulty and length of these jobs before starting, which determines the rewards and XP earned. One of the showcased missions, "Paper Chase," involved three players fighting through the Hiss and destroying thousands of sticky notes scattered around the Oldest House.
Combat and Tools
Each player takes into battle a special kit that includes various tools, such as turrets and boom boxes that can attract enemies. The combat is reminiscent of games like Left 4 Dead 2 or Back 4 Blood, featuring lots of shooting, managing space, and working together to defeat hordes of enemies or complete smaller sub-objectives.
Player Experience and Flexibility
Remedy has designed FBC: Firebreak to be extremely easy to hop into, with no cutscenes or lengthy tutorials. The game is also designed to avoid making players feel like they have a "second job." You can stop playing for months and then come back without feeling behind or needing to grind to catch up to friends.
Player Count and Social Features
The game is limited to three players instead of the traditional four, as Remedy found that three players felt more manageable. There are no bots, so you’ll need some friends and plan time to play together. However, the game is designed to accommodate solo play as well.
Live-Service Elements and Post-Launch Content
FBC: Firebreak will include paid cosmetics and post-launch updates, a departure from Remedy’s past games. However, Remedy is hesitant to use terms like "live-service" or "seasons" as these mean different things to different people. They want to respect players’ time and ensure that no content is time-restricted or based around FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). All playable content updates will be free, and Remedy promises more specific details closer to launch.
Battle Pass and Content Delivery
Remedy has confirmed that there will be no time-restricted content delivery mechanisms. They want to ensure that whether you play daily or every other week, you’ll have the opportunity to acquire all the same items.
Competitive Landscape and Future Ports
Remedy does not see FBC: Firebreak as competing with other online shooters and co-op games. Instead, they want it to "slot in" to your life between other games that might demand more of your time. The developers have also mentioned that they are striving to make FBC: Firebreak Steam Deck verified and run well on lower spec PCs.
Potential for Switch 2 Port
When asked about a potential Switch 2 port, Remedy stated that they are very busy developing the game for the launch and haven’t given the Switch 2 any thought at this point. However, they did not rule out the possibility in the future.
Table: Key Information and Comparisons
| Feature | FBC: Firebreak | Traditional Remedy Games |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | First-person co-op shooter | Single-player, third-person linear adventures |
| Cutscenes | None | Extensive |
| Player Count | Up to 3 players | N/A |
| Gameplay Pillars | Pick-up-and-play, fun on repeat, unique content | Story-driven, rich narratives |
| Content Updates | Free, no time-restrictions | Typically none |
| Live-Service Elements | Paid cosmetics, post-launch updates | N/A |
Did You Know?
FBC: Firebreak is set in the same universe as Control and is part of the larger "Remedy Connected Universe." This means you might see some familiar faces and locations from Control in the game.
Pro Tips
- Plan Ahead: Since FBC: Firebreak requires friends to play, make sure you have a group ready before diving in.
- Customize Your Experience: Take advantage of the ability to customize the difficulty and length of missions to suit your playstyle.
- Stay Updated: Keep an eye out for post-launch updates and new content, as Remedy promises to keep the game fresh with free updates.
FAQ Section
What platforms will FBC: Firebreak be available on?
FBC: Firebreak will launch on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Will FBC: Firebreak have a battle pass?
Remedy has confirmed that there will be no time-restricted content delivery mechanisms, but they have not provided specific details about a battle pass.
How does FBC: Firebreak differ from Remedy’s past games?
FBC: Firebreak is a first-person co-op shooter with no cutscenes, designed for pick-up-and-play, and features a unique content delivery model. This is a significant departure from Remedy’s traditional single-player, story-driven games.
Will FBC: Firebreak be available on the Switch 2?
Remedy has not given any thought to a Switch 2 port at this point, but they have not ruled out the possibility in the future.
How does Remedy plan to compete with other online shooters?
Remedy does not see FBC: Firebreak as competing with other online shooters. Instead, they want it to "slot in" to your life between other games that might demand more of your time.
Call to Action
We want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on FBC: Firebreak? Will you be picking it up when it launches later this year? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore more articles on the latest gaming trends and updates.